Today we review a shiraz from Victoria Australia that can be had for $17 a bottle (although Total Wine charges $22). But holy cow, you can get it for $11.79 at wine.com. What’s up with this one??

I don’t know, but I really like it. As the label brags, it really does have character. Often, a shiraz from Australia is dark, rich, purple, and even a little bit chewy. But GreenPoint is medium-bodied, ruby red, lighter than you expect, a little sweet for a shiraz, and elegant. It’s a little bit spicy, and has a little bit of smoke, making it a perfect for very spicy food, or just sipping. Juicy, warm, spicy, and completely yummy — there’s a lot going on in this glass for $11.79.

A lot going on for your tastebuds, that is. If you just smell it, you get a face full of alcohol, even after the bottle has been open for a while. But who cares. If you love shiraz and the dog-hot summer has been keeping you away from this grape, I suggest you try the 2006 GreenPoint. If you can find it.